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Most amazing architecture in California

Solution #2: Geisel Library – UCSD campus

You guys are good at this! And yes indeed I am talking about Geisel Library this time.

This impressive construct is located on the University of California San Diego campus in La Jolla Village, San Diego. From the top 3 stories students have an amazing view of the surrounding campus while studying for their classes.

So let’s get down some facts:

Geisel Library was designed by William L. Pereira Associates, who is probably best known for his later work – the Transamerica Building in San Francisco; built in the 1960s and completed in 1970.

The library, originally simply named as the University library building, was renamed in 1993 after Audrey S. Geisel, the wife of Theodore Seuss (Dr. Seuss), in honor of their contributions to the library.

The building is constructed of reinforced concrete and glass in a hexagon like shape that gives the building its unique features. The pedestal that forms the base of the structure is supported by 16 columns that rise upward around it at a 45-degree angle to meet the first glass platform on the 6th floor. These columns also obscure the first couple of levels of the building and add to the expressionist style of the complex.

As the building is the home of San Diego University’s library I believe the architect created a perfect place for students to study. The tall windows allow for a lot of natural light to penetrate the rooms and at the same time let you enjoy the view of the canyon the University is placed in. Although very modern in style, I think the building still fits into the landscape perfectly like a huge dragon tree.

Do you see the resemblance?

For me the library is definitely one of the most striking constructs in California, it is different from any other building you may find here and most certainly a place worth visiting while you are in Southern California!

Look forward to my next post! My “Winter special” in memory of our recent trip to Lake Tahoe over Thanksgiving!